NEW YORK — Lasting love doesn’t simply happen when two people find the right partner. It is built through the intentional choices they make every day, say pastoral marriage counselors Shyrone and Rebecca Richardson, who have spent more than 33 years putting that principle to the test in their own marriage and more than two decades helping other couples do the same.
That philosophy is at the heart of the Richardsons’ new book, Winning Together: 8 Keys to Building a Thriving Marriage. Rather than presenting lasting love as the product of perfect compatibility or good fortune, the book covers eight key areas where intentional choices can strengthen a marriage.
“Marriage, when done intentionally, is one of the most powerful partnerships imaginable,” the Richardsons write in the book’s preface.
Their new book blends pastoral insight with lessons learned through real life to help couples cultivate healthier relationships. Covering eight foundational areas, including communication, conflict resolution and keeping faith at the center of marriage, the Richardsons provide relatable examples and practical strategies for navigating common challenges. Each chapter includes concise “Game Plans” that distill key takeaways into easy-to-reference action steps couples can revisit long after they finish the book.
At a time when polished online images can create unrealistic expectations, the Richardsons emphasize that healthy marriages are forged in ordinary moments and strengthened through perseverance, faith and a willingness to grow together. Their insights offer encouragement for couples navigating life’s inevitable stresses and seasons of change.
“Our hope is that these principles help couples build marriages that are not only enduring but deeply fulfilling,” Rebecca Richardson added. “Marriage isn’t about looking perfect. It’s about choosing each other, over and over again, even when life gives you a thousand reasons not to.”
Winning Together: 8 Keys to Building a Thriving Marriage
Publisher: High Point Executive Publishing
Release Date: June 22, 2026
ISBN-13: 979-8998972096
Available here.